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Art by Yasmina Reza

Art by Yasmine Reza is a comedy focusing on a group of three friends, whose close friendship is tested and challenged by a painting. It's not an ordinary painting. It's a work of art that is simply entitled 'White'. The way all three characters interpret the seemingly bland idea creates a blank canvas that explores the blank canvas of the mind in a comedic way that is not afraid to be blunt and mindful at the same time.

A performance that in a creatively artistic way is relatable to today's audience

The set itself is very simple. Three chairs, two low tables, the canvas that 'White' is displayed on and the wall on the stage having a simple mechanism of beige fabric being unhooked to suggest different locations with a different painting under each panel that matches the characters' unique personalities. Although some of the script has had to be changed in order to make an all male script work for a female joining the cast, it has become a performance that in a creatively artistic way is relatable to today's audience.

Sophie Dearlove's Colette draws us in to her subtle vulnerability as she gradually lets us into how she sees 'White'. Her honest approach to Colette enables us to connect with something that makes her happy, yet her complicated relationship with Marc makes us question the status to the relationship itself. Does she secretly fancy Marc? Does he secretly fancy her? If this is the case with both characters, the idea of the friendship getting out of hand over the painting becomes deeper than the original text suggests. Dearlove handles the deflective nature of Sophie in a very sensitive way that leaves us wanting more of her.

Neil James plays the blatantly arrogant Marc, who sees things in a more pedantic way than most. The energetic approach he takes with this character adds to the conflict between all three friends well. Especially as he is not afraid to challenge the painting, adding to the drama within the comedy well. At times James has an element of Arthur Lowe's pompous infamous Captain Mannering about him. This in turn makes the tension within the enclosed space rise and is fascinating to watch.

Finally, Duncan Henderson's Yvan creates an element of what can happen if you are trying to heal from a traumatic time in your life and are easily triggered by events that can mirror the trauma experienced. Henderson really envelops the lost boy element of Ivan, who is trying in an odd sort of way to find himself through the lead up to his own wedding. Henderson enables a relationship with all watching him immediately within the first few seconds of seeing Ivan. His performance has a real sense of rawness and an emotional vulnerability that is powerful to watch and creates a strong sense of comedy.

Under the detailed direction of Roger Kay, Art becomes a dark comedy that is engaging and interesting to watch. The real dynamic is taking an all male piece to a new level to a modern audience which is extremely worth watching.

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Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now

Performances

Location

The Blurb

World-famous dark comedy performed by multiple award-winning Brighton Fringe regulars. The play revolves around three long-term friends. The relationship between two of them is thrown into turmoil by the unexpected purchase of a hugely expensive - and seemingly ridiculous - piece of art. The third friend, on the eve of his wedding and already on edge, is caught in the middle as tensions reach boiling point. ‘Art’ by Yasmina Reza won a string of awards including a Tony Award and a Laurence Olivier Award. Brought to you by Rialto Productions (formally Pretty Villain Productions at Rialto Theatre), featuring Duncan Henderson (The Shark Is Broken, The Polished Scar), Neil James (Betrayal, The God Of Carnage) and Sophie Dearlove (Betrayal, The God Of Carnage), directed by Roger Kay (Glengarry Glen Ross, Betrayal, The Vertical Hour). 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2018 Brighton Fringe award-winners. 2019, 2021 & 2022 Brighton Fringe award-nominees. "the best of the Fringe" - Fringe Review : God Of Carnage "sensational and raises the bar for Fringe theatre" - Broadway Baby : Betrayal "one of the most remarkable theatrical productions I’ve seen in years" - Fringe Review : The Polished Scar
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